Description
The John H. Prescott Marine Mammal Rescue and Response Grant Program provides competitive funding to U.S. marine‑mammal stranding participants and network collaborators for (A) treatment and care of sick, injured, or entangled marine mammals, (B) emergency response to stranding events, (C) scientific collection of data and samples, (D) direct facility operating costs, and (E) capacity‑building such as training where facilities are lacking. Up to 21 awards may be made, each up to $150,000 for a maximum performance period of three years. Applicants must be authorized under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (and, where applicable, the Endangered Species Act), demonstrate a 25 % non‑federal cost share, and meet extensive eligibility, environmental, and risk‑review criteria. The program emphasizes projects that address species‑specific priorities and that enhance the national stranding network.
• Funding: $2.35 M total; average award ≈ $110 k; ceiling $150 k.
• Eligible entities: state, local, tribal governments; public & private higher‑education institutions; nonprofit 501(c)(3) and non‑501(c)(3) organizations; and other qualified stranding participants.
• Required cost share: at least 25 % non‑federal.
• Application deadline: 11:59 PM ET, 30 Nov 2026.
• Anticipated project period: 01 Jun 2027 – 31 May 2030 (up to 3 years).
• Review criteria include scientific merit, technical soundness, applicant qualifications, budget realism, and partnership strength.